HoustonFest organizers have announced their lineup of top bluegrass, old-time and country performers that will play at this year’s HoustonFest, “A Celebration of Song and Service,” on May 3 and 4 at Felts Park in Galax, according to a news release for the event.
“HoustonFest is dedicated to the musical and service legacy of Houston Caldwell, who tragically died in a motorcycle accident on April 30, 2010,” said the release. “At the young age of 18, Houston was an accomplished banjo player, volunteer fireman, member of the United States Army Reserve and highly respected in both the music world and the community.”

HoustonFest is organized and presented in Caldwell’s memory each year by the Galax Volunteer Fire Department and community volunteers.
The lineup this year will feature more than 25 bands, including Rhonda Vincent and The Rage, Gene Watson, Russell Moore and IIIrd Tyme Out, Blue Highway, The Boxcars, Lonesome River Band, Ron Block, Sierra Hull, Wayne Henderson and The Virginia Luthiers, Jeff Little Trio, The Church Sisters, VW Boys and the White Top Mountain Band.
Panel discussions will include respected scholars in the music field, and regional artisans will display and demonstrate their crafts.
This year will also feature a new area called “Camp Houston,” dedicated to youth music, workshops and jam sessions, said the release.
Advance tickets are available at $15 per day, with children 12 and younger admitted at no charge, or $25 for a two-day ticket.
For more information about HoustonFest or to order tickets, call 276-236-9908, email HoustonFestGalax@embarqmail.com or visit www.HoustonFestGalax.com.